12 Days of Terror: A True Story of Shark Attacks
In the summer of 1916, a series of shark attacks occurred along the Jersey Shore in New Jersey, United States. These attacks, which became known as the "12 Days of Terror," took place between July 1 and July 12, 1916, and left four people dead and seven injured.
The First Attack
The first attack occurred on July 1, 1916, when 25-year-old Charles Vansant, a recent college graduate, went for a swim in the ocean at Beach Haven, Long Beach Island. Vansant was swimming in the early evening when a shark attacked him, biting his legs and causing severe injuries. Despite the efforts of lifeguards and bystanders to save him, Vansant died from his injuries.
The Attacks Continue
Over the next 12 days, a series of shark attacks occurred along the Jersey Shore, with five more people being attacked and killed. The attacks were spread out over several beaches, including Beach Haven, Spring Lake, and Atlantic City. The victims included a young boy, a swimmer, and a sailor, among others.
The Shark Hunt
As the attacks continued, panic set in along the Jersey Shore. Beachgoers were terrified, and many stayed out of the water. The local authorities launched a shark hunt, with fishermen and sailors joining forces to hunt down and kill the shark or sharks responsible for the attacks.
The Capture of the Shark
On July 12, 1916, a shark was finally caught and killed off the coast of Beach Haven. The shark, which was later identified as a great white shark, was found to have human remains in its stomach, leading many to believe that it was the culprit behind the attacks.
The Aftermath
The 12 Days of Terror had a lasting impact on the Jersey Shore and beyond. The attacks led to a significant decline in tourism in the area, and many beaches were closed for the remainder of the summer. The incident also led to a greater understanding of shark behavior and the importance of beach safety.
The Legacy
The 12 Days of Terror remains one of the most infamous shark attack incidents in history, and has been the subject of numerous books, movies, and documentaries. The incident also led to the development of shark safety protocols and emergency response plans, which are still in use today.
Conclusion
The 12 Days of Terror was a tragic and terrifying series of events that shook the Jersey Shore and beyond. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of beach safety and the need for vigilance when swimming in the ocean. It is a powerful reminder of the respect and caution we must always show when interacting with the natural world.
